I've lived and worked full time as a volunteer for the past five years. Pretty soon I'm planning on leaving my current position and am planning to pursue investing in real estate. I have practically no income history, been here from age 20-25, living where I work. When it comes to getting financing, are there any perks to having been a volunteer for a considerable and steady amount of time or am I screwed?

For Fannie and Freddie, I do not think that being a volunteer will help you. I believe that they will strictly look at your W2 income. 

Maybe you can apply for some type of humanitarian Grant ? I am not sure.

Though it is very noble,  How have you afforded to live being a volunteer?

@Carolyn Morales

Hi Carolyn.  I live at a rural retreat center (Buddhist).   All food and lodging is provided as well as a small stipend for other needs.  I've wondered about the grants, haven't looked into it yet though.

That is very intriguing.... Maybe there is something humanitarian in the grant categories you can use. Let me know if you find something.